§ Mr. Bob RussellTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what representations he has received concerning requests from lawyers that former prisoners of war of the Japanese should pay them a contribution from the payment awarded by the Government; and if he will make a statement. [R] [144133]
§ Dr. MoonieAs I made clear in my statement on 7 November 2000, the ex-gratia payment for British groups who were held prisoner by the Japanese during the Second World War will be made by the War Pensions Agency direct and in full to the eligible recipients. A number of representations have been received, mostly by the War Pensions Agency, about the reported approach to the expected recipients of the ex-gratia payment by a firm of lawyers seeking a contribution towards its costs. However, the terms of any agreement to make such a contribution are a matter for the parties concerned and not for HM Government.